AAA The Extra Mile – Sept 2024.
From creatively concocted cupcakes, to sustainably caught seafood, to meticulously choreographed five-course gourmet affairs, culinary delights aboard cruises span the culinary spectrum to appeal to diverse palates. Many of the onboard dining venues are included in the price of your cruise, and those select specialty restaurants that aren’t included are well worth the extra charge.
Here are some of the best crave-worthy dining options aboard Royal Caribbean cruises.
150 Central Park; photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean
150 CENTRAL PARK
The modern American restaurant 150 Central Park offers an upscale experience with seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, craft cocktails, and tableside-prepared desserts.
Chop’s Grille; photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean
CHOP’S GRILLE
Chop’s Grille is a hallmark restaurant aboard all Royal Caribbean cruises. Here, you will find juicy American steaks and fresh seafood. Make sure to cap off your meal with a key lime pie or a New York cheesecake.
Cupcake Cupboard; photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean
CUPCAKE CUPBOARD
The 1940’s-style shop Cupcake Cupboard is always a hit with kids. You can take a cupcake design class, frost your own cupcake, or just grab a sweet snack between your adventures.
Desserted Milkshake Bar; photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean
DESSERTED MILKSHAKE BAR
The vibrant ambiance and fun toppings offered at Desserted Milkshake Bar on board Icon of the Seas will please young and adult diners alike. Enjoy a gourmet milkshake or float any time of the day. There are also boozy options for adults.
Hooked Seafood; photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean/SBW-Photo
HOOKED SEAFOOD
If you’re a seafood lover, make sure to dine at Hooked Seafood at least once during your sail. Boasting fresh coastal flavors, the menu features a wide range of great choices, from clam chowder and baked oysters, to Maine Lobster rolls and Maryland crab cakes.
Izumi; photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean
IZUMI
Watch a master chef create colorful handmade sushi, sashimi, nigiri and mochi before your eyes at this high-end Japanese restaurant. The chefs are also skilled at making smaller sushi rolls for kids.
Jamie’s Italian by Jamie Oliver; photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean
JAMIE’S ITALIAN BY JAMIE OLIVER
Britain’s most famous chef, Jamie Oliver serves his Tuscan-inspired cuisine on a number of Royal Caribbean ships. The homemade pasta, buttermilk garlic bread and chianti-braised short ribs are consistently delightful.
Sichuan Red; photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean
SICHUAN RED
On Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum of the Seas, taste the delicious flavors of Asia in a spectacular ambiance at Sichuan Red. Menu highlights include Mao-Pu tofu, Roya Sea Cucumber and duck soup.
Teppanyaki; photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean
TEPPANYAKI
Gather the entire family, and get a front-row seat at this culinary show and dinner. Watch expert chefs show off their knife skills and create beautifully presented Japanese-inspired dishes.
The Mason Jar; photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean
THE MASON JAR
On Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, this perfect brunch spot is where you can satisfy your craving for a taste of the American South, including crispy chicken and waffles, johnnycakes, crab beignets, and cinnamon rolls.
Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine; photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean
WONDERLAND IMAGINATIVE CUISINE
At this magical restaurant, you’ll need to dip a paintbrush in water and brush a blank page to reveal the menu! Go with an open mind, as the creative dishes inspired by Earth’s five elements—earth, sea, fire, ice and sun—are not usually conventional. Think offerings like liquid lobster and Buffalo chicken eggs. Whatever you decide to try, it’s bound to be delish and your most memorable sensory dining experience on a ship.
Many of the casual eateries on Royal Caribbean cruises are complimentary to all cruisers, but some venues may require advance reservations and/or extra fees. To get the best value on specialty restaurants, purchase a dining package, and the simply savor the savings.